Podcasts about faith in jesus christ

What happens when a horror filmmaker, once a staunch atheist, sets out to disprove Christianity, only to be convinced by the evidence? Michael Ray Lewis, a filmmaker who once mocked Christians, dismissed the Bible as nonsense and devoured documentaries that tore down belief in God. But when his wife unexpectedly felt called back to Christ, Michael set out to prove her wrong, and instead, found himself confronted by something he couldn't ignore: the evidence. Michael shares how his atheism was shaped by a childhood void of genuine faith, how his fascination with horror films reflected a deeper spiritual searching, and what ultimately opened his eyes to the truth of Christianity. Guest Bio: Michael Ray Lewis is a filmmaker and former atheist whose search for truth led him to faith in Jesus Christ. Michael now uses his passion for storytelling to communicate truth through film. He is currently directing Universe Designed, a documentary exploring the evidence for God through science, reason, and personal stories. The film features leading apologists and thinkers and aims to help skeptics take a second look at Christianity. Michael lives with his wife and two children just south of Dallas–Fort Worth, where he continues to create meaningful media projects grounded in faith. Resources Mentioned: Website: UniverseDesigned.com Books Michael Recommended The Reason for God – Tim Keller I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist – Frank Turek & Norman Geisler Person of Interest – J. Warner Wallace Tactics – Greg Koukl Apologists/Thinkers Featured or Referenced: Hugh Ross (Reasons to Believe) Frank Turek Sean McDowell Stephen Meyer J. Warner Wallace Greg Koukl Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Hi, I'm John Sorensen, President of Evangelism Explosion International, and you're listening to Share Life Today. Do you know that there are people we pass by every day that are living entrapped in fear and condemnation? Many know how vast their sins are but have no answer for what to do about it. They're hopeless and lost. And what a pity if we don't go and tell them about the amazing grace found only in Jesus. Wari from Papua New Guinea was out with his team in a village witnessing when they came across a woman. And as the conversation developed, they asked her if she was sure that she was going to heaven. She replied, "No, I know I'm going to hell." Because of some great sins she committed in her past, she knew confidently where her destination was. But Wari said, "We have Good News for you!" And they told her about how Jesus paid for her sins on the cross in full. With tears in her eyes, she put her faith in Jesus Christ. You know, we can bring that hope to others as we're sharing the Gospel? For resources how, visit sharelife.today.

Daily Dose of Hope July 17, 2025   Scripture – Matthew 26:17-46   Prayer:  Almighty Father, You always know what is best for us.  Thank you for that.  We are sorry for the ways that we resist.  Help us to want what you want for us.  Help us to want to be patient, to want to be kind, to want to be obedient.  Conform our will, Lord,  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are looking at part two of three parts in Matthew 26.  This is a chapter with lots of substance!   Today's passage includes what we would describe as “The Lord's Supper.”  These are many of the words we say when we share Holy Communion together as a church.   Let's dig into this text.  Jesus has prepared for the disciples to celebrate Passover together.  All the necessary arrangements have been made.  The fact that Jesus is celebrating with his disciples and not his biological family is significant.  It shows his solidarity with these men.    But Jesus knows the solidarity won't last forever.  He prepares this group for one of them to betray him.  None of them believe that they would actually do it.  “You don't mean me, do you?” they all ask, even Judas.  I wonder what Judas is thinking at that moment.  We know he has already betrayed Jesus.  He is a liar and a backstabber and he must have convinced himself that it was the right thing to do.  How often do we convince ourselves that sin is okay, that it is justified?    Passover, or the Festival of Unleavened Bread, is one of the most important Jewish celebrations.  It celebrates the Hebrew victory over Egyptian tyranny.  The Jews were freed from slavery under Pharoah.  At the time, there would have been the additional sub-text of deliverance from Roman oppression as well.    Jesus takes the Passover meal and redefines it for his followers.  Jesus takes the bread and identifies it as his body.  Obviously, it wasn't his literal body, as Jesus was speaker of the statement.  But it represents something very substantial.  Jesus is about to be crucified by the Romans, at the hands of the Jewish leaders.  In doing so, he will be the final sacrifice for sin for all time.    He then takes the cup and declares that the wine is His blood of the new covenant, poured out for the forgiveness sins of the world.  Jesus is ushering in the New Covenant.  He is the New Covenant.  The Old Covenant is being fulfilled by Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.  Can you imagine how confused the disciples are when he says this?  This isn't the typical liturgy of the Passover.  What is Jesus saying about his body and blood?  Remember, while Jesus has warned them of his upcoming death, they still don't quite believe it or understand it.    Let's talk about Holy Communion for just a moment.  In the Lord's Supper, the faith community, current day followers, come together to experience the grace of Jesus Christ on a regular basis.  There are some traditions that read the words in Matthew 26 and believe in transubstantiation, meaning that the bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Jesus.  We don't believe that in Methodism.  However, we do believe that the Holy Spirit is present and at work as we receive communion. It is not just an act of remembrance, but truly a means of grace in which we are able to experience Jesus in a way that is real but also somewhat mysterious. It is a tangible way to experience an inward grace.   Methodists (of all streams) believe that in Communion, the Holy Spirit brings Christ to us, expressing the grace and love of God toward us through the means of bread and wine. In fact, John Wesley described communion as “the grand channel whereby the grace of his Spirit was conveyed to the souls of the children of God.” Through the Lord's Supper, we can expect to experience Jesus' love, forgiveness, healing, holiness, presence, and even a foretaste of heaven. Because of this, Wesley encouraged Methodists to experience Holy Communion weekly if not more, as it provides “nourishment for the soul.”   One of the beautiful things about our theology is that we have an open table. Wesley viewed Holy Communion as “a converting ordinance,” through which the Spirit can lead an individual to faith in Jesus Christ. Because of our emphasis on prevenient grace, we trust that God has already been at work in the life of each person, continuously wooing them closer to Christ. Thus, in the Lord's Supper, you don't have to be a member of any church but simply respond to Christ's invitation-he invites those who love him, who seek him, and who repent of their sins.    For those who have not yet received salvation, we believe that the Holy Spirit can work through the act of communion to transform their heart in such a way they are ready to say yes to Jesus. In this sense, Holy Communion can be an act of justifying grace. For those who are already in the community of faith, Holy Communion tends to be an act of sanctifying grace, as it nurtures believers, points them back toward grace, and helps them grow and move forward in their faith journey.   Our reading for today also has Jesus predicting Peter's denial.  I have always found this so fascinating.  Peter was convinced that he would never turn his back on Jesus.  He says that he will die before renouncing Jesus.  And it is only a few short hours later that Peter denies Jesus not once, not twice, but three times.  How quickly can sin and temptation enter our hearts and minds!  When push came to shove, Peter let fear take over.    As we discussed in Mark, it's wonderful to see how fearful, self-protecting Peter becomes bold, confident Peter after the coming of the Holy Spirit. On our own, we will falter.  With the power of God in us, we can change and do hard things.   Lastly, the poor disciples cannot stay awake.  They've had a lot of wine and food at the Passover meal.  Jesus has them praying and they just can't keep their eyes open.  The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.   It's also here that Jesus submits himself to the Father.  The human part of him would like the whole ordeal to not happen.  But he knows that it must.  It will be the most important event in the history of the world.  Nothing will ever be as significant.  The course of human history is about to change.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Proverbs 29:18 18 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law. John 6:25-28 25 When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” 26 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. 27 Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.” 28 Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” Romans 1:16-17 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” Galatians 2:15-16 15 We ourselves are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners; 16 yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.

Answer: Only by faith in Jesus Christ and in his substitutionary atoning death on the cross; so even though we are guilty of having disobeyed God and are still inclined to all evil, nevertheless, God, without any merit of our own but only by pure grace, imputes to us the perfect righteous- ness of Christ when we repent and believe in him.Each week in 2025, we will discuss a question and answer from the New City Catechism. This podcast aims to be a delightful way to learn devotionally rich doctrine amid daily life. Each episode is produced at Grandview Church in Kitchener, Ontario. To learn more about Grandview Church, and the hosts behind this podcast, (this week, it was Andrew Noble, Jon Cleland, and Tim Mudde) please visit https://www.grandviewchurch.ca/To learn more about the New City Catechism, as well as access related books, songs, and guides, visit: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/new-city-catechism/

Transforming Perspectives | Are you aware of the biblical distinctions of Life? Its purposes today, life as a new creation by faith in Jesus Christ or life after death and the expectation or hope of life in heaven. Scriptures are specific whenever referring to Life, so that everyone will understand God's desires for creating mankind, and the heavens and the earth. In the beginning of life, man was given a charge, meaning a task to take care or obtain dominion over the things on earth. However, God's mercies intervening on man's behalf purposed to reconcile man back to his sovereign will. In doing, God decreed the Way for mankind to obtain a new life, as a new creation by faith in Jesus Christ.The new life is inclusive of the promise of salvation in Jesus Christ. Wherein, a believer enters eternal life, a destination, dwelling under the rule and order of eternal God, not confined to any chronological timing of beginnings or ending. Distinctively, Everlasting Life is a condition as believers being transformed as a new creation, having no ending.   Resurrection Life is a state of being whenever a believer has passes (dies) from this life yet remains or sleep until a designated time in the end with which a second death has no power.Pray, Read and Study : 2nd Corinthians Chapter 5; the Gospel According to John Chapter 5, and the Book of Revelation Chapter 20 verse 6.Thank you for subscribing and listening to our Podcast's Episodes! PODCAST WEBPAGE | - You, Life and God Podcast powered by Buzzsprout.com Episodes | Conversations of Transforming Perspectives pertaining to Biblical Truths are available also on Podcast, Music and Radio Platforms. YouTube | - You, Life and God Podcast Episode Previews You, Life and God Podcast MEDIA Announcements and Episode Previews. Live365 Radio | - You, Life and God Podcast Radio | Let's Have a Talk…, Poignant and Candid Talk, Inspirational Music, Family Prayers, Podcast Episode Replays. Available 24 hours everyday on Music and Radio Platforms. Listen In your Home, at the Office and in your the Car. Radio Live Talk | Let's Have a Talk.., Live, Saturday Mornings, 9amPST, Talk - Replays Airing Daily. RESOURCES | TheBible org., 2025 all rights reserved worldwide. Connect with us on FaceBook and LinkedIn _________________

Welcome to Day 2674 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2674 – New Testament Orientation – “The General Letters of the New Testament” Putnam Church Message – 07/13/2025 Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation Message 11: “The General Letters of the New Testament”   Last week, we explored the "Christ, the Fulfillment of the Law" Core Verse: Galatians 2:16 (NLT)  "Yet we know that a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law. And we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be made right with God by faith in Christ and not by obeying the law. For no one will ever be made right with God by obeying the law." This week is the eleventh of 12 messages in our New Testament Orientation Series, and we will learn: "The General Letters of the New Testament:” 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NLT)  9 But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests,[a] a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 10 “Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God's people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God's mercy.”[b] Opening Prayer Heavenly Father, we approach Your presence today with hearts full of anticipation. As we open the “General Letters” of the New Testament, we pray that Your Spirit would illuminate these precious words. May we, like the early believers, grasp our true identity as Your chosen people, a holy nation, called out of darkness into Your marvelous light. Grant us wisdom to understand these messages forged in the crucible of early Christian life, and empower us to live out the living hope that is ours in Jesus Christ. Amen. Introduction: Voices from the Scattered Flock This is our eleventh lesson in this New Testament Orientation series! We're nearing the completion of our journey, and today we turn our attention to a collection of profound letters often called the "General Letters" or "Catholic Epistles." Unlike Paul's letters, which were typically addressed to specific churches or individuals, these are often broader in their intended audience, offering vital guidance to scattered communities of believers—both Jews and Gentiles—living throughout the Roman world. Our core verses from 1 Peter 2:9-10 beautifully capture the essence of what these letters emphasize: "But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 'Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God's people. Once you received no mercy;...

Welcome to our Reveal Podcast,Today we dive in an great topic, How to Deal with Demons! demons is approached through spiritual authority, faith in Jesus Christ, and reliance on God's Word. Believers are not to fear demons but to recognize their authority through Christ.Confronting demons biblically involves standing firm in Christ's authority, using Scripture, living in righteousness, praying fervently, and relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and power.To support this ministry and help us continue our God-given mission, click here:Subscribe to our channel for the latest sermons:https://www.youtube.com/@revealvineyardLearn more about Vineyard Church Reveal Campus:https://www.revealvineyard.com/Follow us on social media!Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/vineyardrevealcampus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/RevealVineyard

Isn't it amazing to realize that we have a God who will never abandon us? While the world teaches self-reliance, Christianity uniquely conveys that we are not saved by our actions, but by our faith in Jesus Christ. That's why, in today's message, Pastor Ken wants you to know that if you don't yet know Jesus and what He has done for you, the first step is to pray to Him. Ask Jesus to make Himself known in your life and express your desire for a relationship with Him. As you draw closer to Jesus, He will draw closer to you.

Send us a textThe gospel of grace stands unrivaled in its simplicity and power - yet throughout history, there has always been a tendency to corrupt it with additions. In this illuminating exploration of Galatians, we dive deep into Paul's astonishment that the Galatian believers so quickly abandoned the pure message of grace for a distorted version that required law-keeping alongside faith.At the heart of this discussion is Galatians 2:16, the verse that sparked the Protestant Reformation when Martin Luther discovered its revolutionary truth: "knowing that a man is not justified by the works of law but by faith in Jesus Christ." This single verse dismantled centuries of religious tradition and restored the simplicity of salvation by faith alone. We examine why this concept remains so difficult for many to accept - how our natural pride resists the idea that we contribute nothing to our salvation.The fascinating connection between theological distortions throughout history provides a powerful backdrop for understanding Paul's urgent warning. We explore how Moses Maimonides' subtle change in describing God's nature as "Yachid" (absolute one) rather than "Echad" (united one) created massive barriers to Jewish understanding of the Trinity, paralleling how small additions to the gospel message create entirely false gospels.When Christ declared "It is finished" on the cross, He wasn't suggesting His work was merely a partial solution requiring our supplemental efforts. The gospel stands complete in itself - salvation comes through faith alone, and anything added corrupts the entire message. As Paul boldly states, even if an angel from heaven preached any other gospel, "let him be accursed."For those wrestling with legalism, works-based religion, or questions about the sufficiency of grace, this examination of Galatians provides profound clarity. The freedom Paul fought to preserve remains our inheritance today - a salvation so complete that it requires nothing but faith in what Christ has already accomplished.Support the show

Got baptized before you were truly saved? This is more common than you might think. In this episode of Marked by Grace, Heath Lambert addresses a listener's question about getting baptized at 14 without being saved, then coming to faith at 35. Using Romans 6:1-4, discover why baptism is a sign that only has meaning when the spiritual reality it represents has actually occurred in your heart. Learn the biblical difference between getting wet and being truly baptized, plus Heath's personal story of his own childhood "baptism" that wasn't really baptism at all.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction: The question of getting baptized again0:46 - The listener's scenario: Baptized at 14, saved at 351:12 - Heath's answer: Yes, you need to be baptized1:18 - Heath's personal story: Childhood baptism without faith2:04 - The grandmother who demanded baptism2:46 - Going down the aisle under pressure3:25 - Why that baptism was meaningless spiritually3:54 - Getting truly saved at age 144:21 - Realizing the first baptism didn't count4:34 - Romans 6:1-4: The meaning of baptism explained5:30 - Baptism as a sign and picture of spiritual reality5:57 - When the sign means nothing: Getting wet vs. being baptized6:36 - Why it's not "baptized again" but "baptized for the first time"7:10 - The call to be baptized now as a believerKey PointsBaptism Requires Faith: Baptism without genuine faith in Jesus Christ is just getting wet. The spiritual reality must exist before the physical act has any meaning.The Sign vs. The Reality: Baptism is a sign that points to a spiritual reality - dying to sin with Christ and being raised to new life. If the reality hasn't happened, the sign is meaningless.Common Scenario: Many people get baptized before they're truly saved - whether as children, teenagers, or adults who thought they believed but hadn't genuinely trusted Christ.Biblical Foundation: Romans 6:1-4 explains that baptism represents our spiritual death and resurrection with Christ. Paul assumes all believers have been baptized because it's the natural response to salvation.Not "Again" But "For the First Time": If you weren't saved when you were first baptized, you weren't really baptized at all - you just got wet. True baptism happens when you're baptized as a genuine believer.Personal Responsibility: Even if you were baptized due to family pressure, church tradition, or personal decision before salvation, you need to be baptized as a believer to properly signify what God has done in your heart.The Picture of Baptism: Going under the water represents death to sin (like Jesus in the tomb), coming up represents resurrection to new life (like Jesus rising from the dead).Scripture ReferencesRomans 6:1-4 - "What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." - The meaning and necessity of baptism for believersHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Teaching from Romans 3 this week, Dion van Breda shows us that God's righteousness is not a license to sin, but rather that it empowers us to to seek and to follow Him first, before all the things of this world.Romans 3: 21 - 26 (NIV)But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of His blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in His forbearance He had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 He did it to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

In this episode of the Cornerstone Church podcast, Pastor Dustin Bates kicks off a thought-provoking series titled "Summer Road Trip: Navigating the Hard Questions." The first question tackled is central to the Christian faith: "What does it mean to be a Christian?" Pastor Dustin uses the analogy of a summer road trip to explore intricate and challenging theological concepts. He outlines the importance of "right thought" and "right action" as foundational to the Christian life, offering a formula that equates to genuine Christian faith. Throughout the sermon, Pastor Dustin delves into the historical context of Christianity, touching on the formation of key doctrines such as the Nicene Creed to address critical misconceptions and heresies. He highlights the essence of Jesus as both fully God and fully man, and the significance of the Holy Trinity. Through vivid analogies and impassioned teaching, listeners are encouraged to distinguish true Christian beliefs from cultural and religious misconceptions. The message concludes with a call to action: what it truly means to confess faith in Jesus Christ and the assurance of salvation through belief and right conduct. Pastor Dustin invites listeners to reconsider their understanding of Christianity, urging them to embrace the biblical truth guarded by the historical boundaries of faith. Join us as we journey through these profound questions that define and deepen our understanding of the Christian lif

July 13 2025 Sunday Your Words Matter / Week 23 / T. Stacy Hayes #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word.  That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. Isaiah 53:5  Healing… Matthew 18:19  Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34  God is no respecter of persons “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:12 KJV “I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me.” Philippians 3:12 NLT “Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own.” Philippians 3:12 AMPC “which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.” Colossians 2:17 KJV “For these rules are only shadows of the reality yet to come. And Christ himself is that reality.” Colossians 2:17 NLT “Such [things] are only the shadow of things that are to come, and they have only a symbolic value. But the reality (the substance, the solid fact of what is foreshadowed, the body of it) belongs to Christ.” Colossians 2:17 AMPC “knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:24 KJV “Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.” Colossians 3:24 NLT “Knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah).” Colossians 3:24 AMPC “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” 1 John 1:5 KJV “This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” 1 John 1:5 NLT “And this is the message [the message of promise] which we have heard from Him and now are reporting to you: God is Light, and there is no darkness in Him at all [no, not in any way].” 1 John 1:5 AMPC “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” 1 John 2:27 KJV “But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don't need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true—it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ.” 1 John 2:27 NLT “But as for you, the anointing (the sacred appointment, the unction) which you received from Him abides [permanently] in you; [so] then you have no need that anyone should instruct you. But just as His anointing teaches you concerning everything and is true and is no falsehood, so you must abide in (live in, never depart from) Him [being rooted in Him, knit to Him], just as [His anointing] has taught you [to do].” 1 John 2:27 AMPC Romans 10:9-10  Salvation… Romans 10:17  Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16  God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2  Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1  No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior…  Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19  God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20  Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17  We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21  We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8  We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com  YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 …  Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical  Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured

Pastor Wale Odufuye   In this inspiring episode, we explore the essence of belief in our journey with God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding God's job description for us: to believe. Through the analogy of marriage and personal anecdotes, we delve into the dual aspects of salvation—judicial and experiential—and how belief transforms our daily lives. Discover the profound impact of aligning our actions with our faith, and how knowledge, obedience, and community are essential in nurturing our spiritual growth. This episode challenges listeners to transcend intellectual belief and embrace an active, living faith in Jesus Christ. Join us in this transformative journey and learn how to live a life of faith and victory through a renewed understanding of salvation and belief.

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes' exciting local radio program, Heart of the Athlete, airs Saturdays at 9 am MST on KBXL 94.1 FM. The show is hosted by local FCA Director, Ken Lewis. This program is a great opportunity to listen to local athletes and coaches share their lives, combining sports with their faith in Jesus Christ each week!Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word through Integrity, Serving, Teamwork and Excellence.NNU Box 3359 623 S University Blvd Nampa, ID 83686 United States (208) 697-1051 klewis@fca.orghttps://www.fcaidaho.org/Podcast Website: https://941thevoice.com/podcasts/heart-of-the-athlete/

The Church Street Podcast: The Bullpen Where every voice gets a turn at the mic. At First Grapevine, we're blessed with three gifted preachers—but sometimes, not every voice gets a chance to share during Sunday worship. The Bullpen is where that extra voice steps up, bringing fresh perspectives and spiritual depth to the conversation. In this episode, Pastor Grant Palma, Dr. Keva Green, and Pastor Zach Stiefel explore The Letters of Paul, focusing on Galatians 2:15–20—a powerful passage about how salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by following the law. They also revisit the moving story of the Ethiopian Eunuch, reflecting on how it has personally shaped their faith journeys. And in a lighter moment, they discuss how country music can mean very different things depending on where in the world you are! Join us for real conversations, honest reflections, and shared wisdom from three unique voices. Follow us on social media to stay connected with The Bullpen, The Church Street Podcast, and all things First Grapevine. Let's grow together in truth and grace. We're so glad you're here.

Are you constantly battling overwhelming anxiety, persistent worry, or nagging fear? In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, it's easy to lose your peace and feel consumed by stress. Many seek solutions in temporary fixes, but what if there's a deeper, spiritual key to true and lasting peace, regardless of your circumstances?In this powerful message, "Peace or Anxiety," Coach Shelby dives into biblical wisdom to equip you with the tools to overcome fear, worry, and stress. We'll explore why trusting God is the ultimate antidote to anxiety and how to access the profound peace that only He can provide.Drawing from key scriptures like Philippians 4:6-7, you'll learn God's way to deal with the spiritual roots of anxiety, understand the nature of oppression, and discover how to take every thought captive. This message will empower you to guard your heart and mind through Christ Jesus, ensuring that the peace of God, which surpasses all human understanding, anchors you in every season.In this eye-opening message, you'll discover:The spiritual root of anxiety, worry, and fear.Why trusting God is essential for true peace.How to take authority over oppressive thoughts and whispers.The profound meaning of God's peace that "surpasses all understanding."Practical steps to guard your heart and mind daily through faith in Jesus Christ.#PeaceAndAnxiety #OvercomeFear #ChristianLiving #Philippians4 #BiblicalPeace #TrustGod #AnxietyRelief #FaithOverFear #Mindset #ChristianSermon #CoachForChrist #SpiritualGrowth #WorryFree #JesusIsPeace

Welcome to Day 2664 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2669 – New Testament Orientation – “Christ, The Fulfillment of the Law” Putnam Church Message – 07/06/2025 Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation Message 10: “Christ, the Fulfillment of the Law”   Last week we explored “The Letters of Paul: God's Design for a New Humanity.” Core Verses: Romans 1:16-17 (NLT) “For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ, for it is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, ‘It is by faith that a righteous person will live.'” This week is the tenth of 12 messages in our New Testament Orientation Series, and we will learn: "Christ, the Fulfillment of the Law" Core Verse: Galatians 2:16 (NLT) "Yet we know that a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law. And we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be made right with God by faith in Christ and not by obeying the law. For no one will ever be made right with God by obeying the law."   Opening Prayer Our Gracious Heavenly Father, we stand before You today, humbled by the depth of Your wisdom and the mystery of Your ways. As we delve into the intricate relationship between Your holy Law and the glorious Person of Jesus Christ, we pray for clarity of mind and open hearts. May Your Holy Spirit guide us to understand how Christ perfectly fulfilled Your purposes, shattering the barriers that separated humanity from Your presence and from one another. Transform our understanding, deepen our devotion, and empower us to live in the freedom and righteousness He secured. In the mighty name of Jesus, our Living Torah, we pray. Amen. Introduction: The Enduring Question of the Law We've navigated the Gospels, explored the explosive growth of the early church in Acts, and journeyed through Paul's foundational letters. Today, we confront a topic that has puzzled, divided, and sometimes even hurt believers throughout history: the Law. For ancient Israelites, the Torah was a gift, a privilege, a source of joy and identity. As the psalmist declared, "Oh, how I love your instructions! I think about them all day long." (Psalm 119:97, NLT). So, if the Law was so good, what changed with the coming of Christ? Our core verse from Galatians 2:16 boldly states: "Yet we know that a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law. And we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be made right with God by faith in Christ and not by obeying the law. For no one will ever be made right with God by obeying the law." This statement, from a Jew who once fiercely kept the Law, demands our careful attention. How can something so celebrated in the Old Testament suddenly be portrayed in a way that suggests it cannot make one "right with God"? Today, we will explore three interconnected concepts that help us understand this profound shift: the "curse of the Law," the...

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today's episode will help us gain a comprehensive understanding of Sikhism, highlighting its core beliefs, practices, history, and shared human values of hospitality and truth while promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding. Exploring Sikhism: Insights with Gajinder Shah Singh and Dyron Daughrity Join Daniel McCoy, editorial director for renew.org, and his friend Dyron Daughrity as they discuss Sikhism with Gajinder Shah Singh. In this episode, Dyron shares details about his upcoming research trips to Rome, New York City, and Crete, while the conversation with Gagen delves into the principles of Sikhism, the importance of the Gajinder Shah Singh , and the five Ks that guide Sikhs in their daily lives. Additionally, they discuss common misconceptions about Sikhism in the West and how Christians can foster better understanding and hospitality towards the Sikh community. This episode offers a comprehensive look at Sikh history, beliefs, and practices, making it an enlightening experience for anyone interested in world religions.   00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Trips 01:20 Exploring Sikhism: Origins and Beliefs 06:26 The Five Ks of Sikhism 09:05 Similarities and Differences with Christianity 12:51 Welcoming Mr. Singh 14:50 Mr. Singh's Background and Journey 23:16 Historical and Cultural Insights 26:38 Common Misconceptions in the West 27:47 Sikh Migration and Independence Movement 29:00 The Role of Sikhs in India's Independence 30:43 Personal Journey to the USA 31:01 Partition of India and Sikh State Aspirations 32:09 Cultural Diversity in India 33:23 Life in America and Community Integration 36:45 Health Challenges and Alternative Medicine 39:04 Sikhism and Interfaith Relations 47:57 Sikh Practices and Traditions 49:23 Encouraging Interfaith Dialogue 50:32 Invitation to Experience Sikh Hospitality 53:55 Concluding Remarks and Invitation In this episode titled "Conversation About Sikhism," Daniel McCoy, editorial director for renew.org, and Dyron Daughrity, a professor at Pepperdine University, talk with Gajinder Shah Singh. The discussion broadly dives into Mr. Singh's background, Sikhism fundamentals, and common misconceptions about the religion.   The episode begins with Daniel McCoy introducing the podcast and the topic, followed by Dyron Daughrity sharing his upcoming travel plans related to religious conferences and research. The conversation transitions into discussing Sikhism when Daniel prompts Dyron Daughrity to explain this relatively young religion originating from India. Gajinder Shah Singh shares his personal history, including his journey to the United States in 1971 and his work in Los Angeles. He elaborates on his family's long-standing connection to Sikhism, specifically through the contributions of his forefather to the construction of the Golden Temple. Mr. Singh emphasizes the importance of truth and morality in Sikh teachings and the role of Sikh gurus. The conversation shifts to discuss the similarities and differences between Sikhism and Christianity. Daniel McCoy and Dyron Daughrity note that both religions emphasize a personal relationship with God. However, Christians focus on salvation and faith in Jesus Christ, whereas Sikhs emphasize following the "Five Ks" and living through the teachings in the Guru Granth Sahib. Mr. Singh acknowledges Jesus Christ as a significant religious figure who promoted truth and fought against sin, drawing comparisons to Sikh gurus who also advocated for righteous living. The episode also explores common misconceptions about Sikhs, such as assumptions based on their appearance. Mr. Singh recounts instances of ignorance and highlights the importance of hospitality in Sikh culture. He points out that visiting a Gurdwara (Sikh temple) offers non-Sikhs insight into the Sikh way of life and provides opportunities for building interfaith understanding. Dyron Daughrity further promotes interfaith dialogue by urging listeners to visit local Gurdwaras and experience the welcoming nature and communal meals (langar) provided there. Mr. Singh notes that langar serves practical and symbolic purposes, rooted in agricultural traditions and promoting community and equality. Overall, this episode serves as an enlightening and comprehensive introduction to Sikhism, highlighting the religion's core beliefs, practices, history, and the shared human values of hospitality and truth. The conversation underscores the value of interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding in fostering global harmony.

In this episode, Pastor Scott Wade interviews Steven Tolleson, retired Major League Baseball Player.  He talks with Scott about his career in baseball and his faith in Jesus Christ.  

This week, Ricky and Bonnie discuss the past 10 years since the Obergerfell vs Hodges Supreme Court Decision, and how our culture might be realizing that the legalization of gay marriage has not ultimately solved the emptiness and brokenness we all experience, since ultimately what we all need is repentance of our sin and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Scripture: 1 Samuel 17-51, Ephesians 6:10, 2 Corinthians 10:4, 1 Corinthians 15:57. Today's story is the most familiar, famous and well-known battle in the Old Testament - David and Goliath - but is there still something we can learn from a story we know so well? This is a battle between Goliath and the Philistines and the Israelite army. Goliath challenges them every day for 40 days: “send a man to battle me, if I kill him you become our slaves and if your man kills me we will become your slaves.” 40 days are significant in the Bible - it is a time of preparation and renewal that at its end brings forth mighty things from God. On the 41st day of the challenge - David arrives with food for his brothers and others in the army and he learns of Goliath's challenge. David is in his teens - younger than age 20 and he arrives at a critical moment. He is concerned for God's honor. Seeing this challenge as a spiritual battle, he speaks bravely.  His brothers ridicule him - yet he says he will take Goliath on.  To King Saul, David shares stories of past bravery and says the Lord will rescue him from the hand of Goliath. David is Spirit-filled, knows his strength is in God alone, is confident and bold and recognized it is God who saves. David trusts the Lord who delivered him in the past to deliver him again. So Saul tells David to fight Goliath and he outfits David in his armor but David takes it all off as he's never worn anything like that before. Comparisons:     ⁃    David a young teen and untrained in battle vs Goliath a well trained warrior     ⁃    David is of small stature vs Goliath who stood at 9 feet 9 inches tall     ⁃    David is dressed in a shepherd's simple clothing vs Goliath with a bronze helmet wearing 125 pounds of body armor      ⁃    David's weapons were his shepherd's staff, a slingshot and 5 smooth stones vs Goliath carrying a 15 pound spear plus a javelin. And David goes out to meet Goliath and says, ‘you come against us with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the Name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the Armies of Israel and this day the Lord will deliver you into my hands - I will strike you down and cut off your head for the battle is the Lord's and He will give all of you into our hands.” David runs toward Goliath and slings a stone hitting Goliath in the head and Goliath falls down dead. This is not simply an historic battle record - it is clear insight into what the New Testament describes as spiritual realities. Spiritual Realities     ⁃    Spiritual warfare - life is a battle but we know God wins.     ⁃    Spiritual weapons - we put on the armor of God: prayer, the Name of Jesus, God's word, daily filling of the Holy Spirit     ⁃    Spiritual victory - is in Christ Jesus. From this familiar story we are to learn we are to be familiar with the lessons that     ⁃    We are in the midst of a battle     ⁃    The Lord provides strength to triumph through faith in Jesus Christ. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/david-and-gods-heart Join us Sundays  https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app.

Our status at death of whether we are forgiven or unforgiven rests solely on faith in Jesus Christ. Pastor Nate Harlan preaches on Jesus' status as one from above. Listen above or download the audio file here. Photo by Em bé khóc nhè on Unsplash The post I Am He — John 8:21–30  first appeared on Trinity Reformed Church.

July 06 2025 Sunday Your Words Matter / Week 22 / T. Stacy Hayes #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word.  That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. Isaiah 53:5  Healing… Matthew 18:19  Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34  God is no respecter of persons “And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.” Romans 5:11 KJV “So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.” Romans 5:11 NLT “Not only so, but we also rejoice and exultingly glory in God [in His love and perfection] through our Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom we have now received and enjoy [our] reconciliation. [Jer. 9:24.]” Romans 5:11 AMPC “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14 KJV “As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world's interest in me has also died.” Galatians 6:14 NLT “But far be it from me to glory [in anything or anyone] except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) through Whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world!” Galatians 6:14 AMPC “from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:16 KJV “He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” Ephesians 4:16 NLT “For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, building itself up in love.” Ephesians 4:16 AMPC “and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:19 KJV “and they are not connected to Christ, the head of the body. For he holds the whole body together with its joints and ligaments, and it grows as God nourishes it.” Colossians 2:19 NLT “And not holding fast to the Head, from Whom the entire body, supplied and knit together by means of its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.” Colossians 2:19 AMPC “For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:” 2 Corinthians 2:15 KJV “Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing.” 2 Corinthians 2:15 NLT “For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which exhales] unto God, [discernible alike] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing:” 2 Corinthians 2:15 AMPC Romans 10:9-10  Salvation… Romans 10:17  Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16  God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2  Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1  No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior…  Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19  God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20  Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17  We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21  We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8  We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com  YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 …  Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical  Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured

The Nicene Creed's statement regarding the church is taken directly from Scripture: it is the one holy, catholic, and apostolic church. The New Testament epistles show the vital connection between Christ and his church. To be a Christain is to be intimately involved in the life of a local assembly. A New Testament church is a gathering of regenerated people who belong to the Lord Jesus by the ministry of the one Holy Spirit and who are summoned to belong to the one Lord to commune with him and to mutually upbuild one another. It is "holy" because it is separated from the world and separated unto God as his holy people. The church is "catholic", meaning it is trans-historical and trans-cultural - comprising all who are cleansed by Jesus' blood and inhabited by the Holy Spirit. The church is "apostolic," meaning it exists under the teaching authority of the apostles as expressed in the New Testament. The church is composed of those who are baptized "for the forgiveness of sins." Baptism is the initiation rite into the Christian church for those who have come in repentance from sin and faith in Jesus Christ; it is the outward mark of those whom God has called to himself through Christ. These believers function as living members of Christ by participation in local assemblies before God under his Word.

When we have a need – a real need – something we can't do or fix or resolve for ourselves – what we need, is a helping hand. And if we get that helping hand – the person who's attached to that hand, well, they go up in our estimation. They earn the right to say things that others can't to us.  Funny thing happens through a helping hand.   Healing with our Hands Well, welcome to the programme this week – the last message in a series that I've called, “Living Life as an Ambassador for Christ”. And today... today I would like to share with you how you and I can be real ambassadors ... ambassadors with a difference; ambassadors that really stand out from the crowd. Whenever there's a disaster somewhere in the world – a tsunami or an earthquake or a cyclone or a tornado – it seems to me that the wealthy countries like my own; the countries with the logistics and the equipment and the resources to help – it seems we take forever to mobilise. When people are buried under rubble, they only have days, perhaps only hours to live and what they need right then, is specialist search and rescue teams, with sniffer dogs and listening equipment and all that stuff. And the survivors, what they need, is medical help, food, water, shelter. And the last thing I want to do is be critical but it seems to take so long for the wealthy countries to mobilise their resources. We know that these disasters are going to happen every year – they just happen and I am always left kind of scratching my head as to why it is that it takes us so long to respond. What those poor people need, within the first twenty four hours, is a huge influx of capability to save lives. And these days, I mean, you can pretty much fly from anywhere to anywhere in not much more than twenty fours and yet, time and time and time again these disasters happen and it takes us weeks to mobilise. Does that kind of strike you as strange? You know, as a tax payer in a relatively wealthy country – all be it a smallish population, but never the less, a wealthy country – when I see the way public monies are spent, the last thing that I'd have a problem with is my government setting aside some money to establish and maintain some rapid response capabilities to help other nations when disasters strike. But as easy as it is to sit there and criticise a government, I wonder whether this lethargy in responding to need isn‘t something that you and I experience in our personal lives. I read about an extreme example of this in a newspaper recently. Have a listen to this short article. A South Korean couple addicted to online gaming, let their baby starve to death while raising a virtual daughter. Parents, Kim You-Chul and Choi Mi-sun, spent up to 12 hours a day at an internet café tending to their avatar child in the online game Prius. But they left their real baby home alone and fed her just one bottle of milk a day. Police have charged the couple with child abuse and neglect. Pretty bizarre, pretty extreme, one might think, "Got nothing to do with me; I'm not like that. I don't neglect my children like that." I would hope not but what about our friends; what about our family members; what about our neighbours; what about the couple next door whose marriage is falling apart? We hear them screaming and arguing but do we ever invite them over for a barbecue, to share in their lives and for them to share in ours? What about that person at church – you know the one – single; overweight; they're life's a mess, they talk a bit too much and no one ever invites them to their place on Sunday for lunch? What about that man at work – you see he's a workaholic; he's ruining his marriage, neglecting his children – ruining everything, all for want of a friend who can show him a better way of living? Where are we then, you and I? I'll tell you where: we are like ‘online' that Korean couple, watching TV! We're doing all the things we want to do in the comfort of our own lives and our own homes. And the more affluent we become the less we care for one another. But we justify that; we rationalise it away; we sit in our homes with more than enough – many of us – more than enough, telling ourselves, "We worked hard for it and now we need a rest." We are living virtual lives, watching TV shows about cooking, instead of cooking ourselves; watching TV shows about travelling, instead of travelling ourselves. Raising our virtual lives, our virtual gods and ignoring the real world. It sounds harsh doesn't it? Well, sometimes we need to be direct. Sometimes we need to call a spade a spade. God does that too. Have a listen to this – First John chapter 3, verse 17. If you have a Bible, open it up – towards the end – the First Letter of John chapter 3, verse 17: How does God's love abide in anyone who has all the world's goods and yet sees a brother or sister in need but refuses to help? Now, I know that's hard because there seems to be so much need out there in the world. Sometimes we look at the news and we see the misery and we just turn it off, you and I – we can't make a difference; it's too big. Okay, I kind of understand that, although we can always make some small difference, but there are so many people closer to home; sometimes even within our homes, that we have the opportunity to serve – to heal with our hands; to heal with what we do as well as with what we say. Speaking first hand here, there is nothing ... absolutely nothing that speaks more about God's love into someone's life than when we step in to help them with that one thing they need help with. Sometimes it's the smallest thing – just a word of encouragement; a meal to someone just out of hospital; a visit or a phone call. Sometimes it's loving them over the long run; being there with them and for them. Whatever it is, when we have a need and someone just meets that need, there is nothing that speaks more of the love of Jesus than that. Believe you me, I know. It was people doing just that in my life who played such a powerful role in me coming to faith in Jesus Christ. In fact, their investment in meeting my needs bears fruit every day, as I sit down behind this microphone. Listen again to what Paul writes about how he sees his role and ours in this world. Second Corinthians chapter 5, verse 20: So we are ambassadors for Christ; since God is making his appeal through us we entreat you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God. Imagine now, an ambassador of a wealthy country who has taken up his or her post in a poor country. And one day that poor country suffers a devastating earthquake and that ambassador from the wealthy country moves heaven and earth to quickly mobilise rescue and medical capabilities. They come quickly; they meet the desperate needs and then, when finally the crisis is over, what do you think the ambassador's actions have just said to the people of that poor country, about the wealthy country that the ambassador represents? That ambassador's actions will have spoken volumes into the poorer nation about how much the richer nation cares for them. It's simply not rocket science! Do you believe in Jesus? I do! And anyone who does is called to be an ambassador of Christ and as the Apostle Paul writes, it is through His ambassadors, dotted all over the planet, that God makes His appeal for people to be reconciled to Him. We don't have to look very far to find the need, do we? Often it's right under our noses. And we can spend time in prayer and at church and worshipping God and all those wonderful, good things while the babies starve; while the needs go unmet; while marriages next door fall apart and people right across the street are living in fear. Or we can go ... go and be ambassadors of Christ. For how does God's love abide in anyone who has the world's goods and sees a brother or a sister in need and yet refuses to help?   Loving with our Hearts As I said at the beginning of today's programme, this is our last message in this four part series, “Living Life as an Ambassador for Christ”. And as we draw to the end I always find myself thinking of so many other things we could have talked about. Over the last three weeks I guess, what we have been doing is taking a look at the different aspects of the Apostle Paul's assertion that he and by implication, you and me - if we believe in this amazing, loving, compassionate, powerful Jesus – are ambassadors for Christ. Have a listen again to how he put it – Second Corinthians chapter 5, verse 20: So we are ambassadors for Christ; since God is making his appeal through us, we entreat you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God. We have talked a lot about what it means to be an ambassador through whom God would make His appeal to a lost and hurting world. We've looked a bit at the way Jesus was an emissary of God into this world when He became a man. How He communicated God's message of grace to the blind and the poor and the diseased and the needy and the outcast. And I wish we could spend weeks and months more, taking a closer look at that. Maybe we will come back to it in a little while because at the centre of everything ... EVERYTHING is Jesus, the Son of God; the Maker of the heavens and the earth. So, as we draw this series together today, with so much more left to talk about, I had to decide on just one thing – the most important thing – and that most important thing; the one thing that Paul, at the end of First Corinthians 12 calls, "the yet more excellent way", is this: love! That's what we are going to finish up with today. I had a friend who, several years ago now, was called into Christian ministry, out of Australia into the United Kingdom. Now the particular place where he went to live and to work was, well, it was a part of the U.K. that was particularly depressed at the time. His job wasn't to work directly with the people but when I went to visit him and I wandered around the local town, I could feel that ... that oppression. There were derelict factories, rusting, decaying remnants of the industrial age. There was high youth unemployment and I spoke with the people; there seemed to be a hopeless; a lost-ness; an emptiness in this part of the country. It really stood out. Now we Australians, by and large, are a pretty optimistic lot. We have in our National character this ‘can do' attitude that to other cultures sometimes, comes across as being a bit brash. And so when I was confronted with this sad community's spirit, it really struck me between the eyes. And as I chatted with my friend over coffee late one night, he too confessed that he was finding that really difficult – moving from one culture to another – it's never easy. But the sadness and the listlessness and the hopelessness all around, particularly, coupled with the long, grey, cold winters, was really getting to him. Now, please understand me, I am not knocking the Brits. I love travelling to England but there are parts of the country – any Brit will tell you this – there are parts of the country where there is high unemployment, particularly amongst the youth – and it's tough going. Anyhow, a year or so later I was chatting with this man over Skype and he's a great guy – I love keeping in touch with him – and so I assumed he was still doing it tough in this unfamiliar culture. I started empathising with him and his response ... his response shocked me. He said in effect, "Oh no; no, no, we love it here; absolutely love it here. This is where God means us to be and it's really great." That was quite a turn around, so I asked him, "What's changed? You've moved your position a long way from where you were and what you were feeling a few years ago." And as I listened to him talk, it clicked! I could hear it in his voice – he had fallen in love with the people. God had touched his heart and he had this real compassion for the people out there – the unemployed; the people with that sense of hopelessness. He'd become part of a local church and he was part of the community and he realised that the joy and the enthusiasm and the optimism that he had in his heart could be a light in that place. He had fallen in love with the people. Sometimes we Christians feel like misfits in this world. There's a reason for that. As Jesus said in His prayer, just before He was crucified – John chapter 17 – He said that, “... we are in the world but not of the world.” The Apostle Paul makes the point that “ ... we are citizens of heaven, not of this world.” We are misfits; just like my friend the Aussie felt – he was a misfit in his new surroundings. And when we are misfits, the easiest thing in the world is to kind of criticise and poke fun and belittle those around us and complain – "I know Jesus; I have my life sorted out; I know what's right and all those other people out there, whose lives are in a mess, well, they're somehow less that I am." We criticise, we argue, we demean – it's called, "religious superiority". You see it often between races and cultures – one race looks down on another because of their skin colour or their traditions or just who they are. And I've seen people get this wrong over and over and over again. I love it when the Apostle Paul says in First Corinthians 13, it doesn't matter what gifts or abilities or what you do or how much you give, if you don't have love, friend you are nothing. And the love that Jesus showed was more than just love – it was compassion, it was empathy, it was kindness and gentleness. There are two Letters in the New Testament – First Timothy and Second Timothy – they are written by Paul to Tim, his young protégée. And in the second one, the Apostle Paul writes these words – Second Timothy chapter 2, verses 24 to 26: And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to everyone, an apt teacher, patient, correcting opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth, and that they may escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will. The bit I love most in there is the bit about God perhaps granting that they will repent and come to know the truth; they may escape the snare of the devil and be set free. It's oh so easy, as someone who loves Jesus and is passionate about Him and who wants to see people's lives transformed, to start getting this idea that it's up to us. You know, we see many, many lives transformed through these radio programmes, all over the world but let me tell you this, with all that I am: nothing that I can do; nothing that I can say, can change lives! Just yesterday I received an email from a man in another country who wrote about a particular programme he'd listen to over the New Year period and he said, "One small thing you said, God took that and changed my life." He was an alcoholic and he'd stopped drinking. Now, I can't do that – only God can, by His Spirit when He takes His Word and brings it to life in our hearts. That bit is God's job. And when you or I become arrogant or pushy or superior in our attitudes we are working against God because, “God always opposes the proud but He gives grace to the humble.” And I don't care what gift you or I have, how hard we work for Jesus, how much of our cash we contribute to His work, unless we have love, my friend, we are enemies of God; enemies of our fellow men, women and children. “These three things remain”, writes Paul in First Corinthians chapter 13, “faith, hope and love. All really good but the greatest amongst these is love.” Whatever we do, however we do it, if we do it in love, God can use it – kind, gentle, patient – that's what Paul writes to Timothy. The wisdom of a man towards the end of his life after many, many years of very difficult ministry – bound in chains; about to be executed, writing to his young protégée, just starting out on his career - kindness, gentleness, patience and love.   A Price to Pay Now, I had the honour the other evening of sitting and having dinner with a man who heads up a large international ministry that touches young people with the love of Jesus Christ. They have a passion for seeing the lives of young folk transformed and they have missions and people kind of all over the world doing that – it's a huge organisation. Now this man happens to be an Australian and him and his wife and a couple of kids had to move from Australia to the U.S. for him to be able to take up the role as global president of this missions and ministry organisation. So, several years ago they received the call and off they went. Now you would imagine Australia and America – both English speaking; both Western cultures; pretty similar countries in many ways – you would imagine. But as someone who has travelled to the U.S. a lot and as someone who's just received an American into our ministry; a man and his family who immigrated the other direction – from the U.S. to Australia – I can tell you, there are some huge cultural differences between these two, apparently similar countries. Anyhow, I asked this man and his wife, as we were having dinner together, how did they find things when they moved their family to a large city in the U.S. several years ago. ‘Aw,' they said, ‘it wasn't easy. Oh, there were some big adjustments. Oh, that first twelve months was really tough going and we still missed those familiar things and the people and the culture that we grew up in.' So, I guess this is my point, is that it would be easy for you and me to sit and look at and listen to this man and think to ourselves, "Well, he's blessed; he made it; he's at the top of the heap in this large ministry, without ever seeing the cost. It cost him something, it cost his wife, it cost his children to uproot themselves and follow the call of God." Now, this guy is such a gifted leader – he is so the right man to head up that organisation but it cost him. You get it – it cost him. And these days he spends a lot of time flying around the world at the back of the plane – he's a tall man – and that's tiring and uncomfortable and as someone said to me recently, this guy could be the head of any large global corporation. He just has what it takes – he could be flying first class; he could be earning stacks of money but he's doing neither because his heart burns with a fire ... a fire; a passion to see peoples' lives changed. Not as they embrace some new religion or learn a new set of rules but as they meet and encounter Jesus Christ. As they discover His love and His power and His compassion and His vision for their lives – Jesus. This man; this leader is an ambassador for Christ. For two reasons – first is his soft heart; his passion and the second are his hard feet. In other words, he was prepared to go. I think it was Corrie Ten Boom who once said something along the lines that, God calls us to have soft hearts and hard feet. But the problem is that many Christians have the exact opposite – they have hard hearts and soft feet. My friend, whenever we are called to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ, there is a price to pay. Jesus said, “If anyone would be my disciple then he must take up his cross and follow me.” Count the cost – there is a cost and, “Unless you take up your cross and follow me,” said Jesus, follow me where I lead, “then you cannot ... you cannot be my disciple.” Being an ambassador of Christ is going to cost us something. It is not for the faint hearted; it is not for the hard hearted. It is for those in who burns a fire for Jesus; a passion to see hurting, needy people encounter this risen Saviour, Jesus, whether it's across the world or across the street – a passion to see lives transformed by Jesus. Does that mean we all have to immigrate to a foreign land and head up a ministry? Of course, it doesn't! But it does mean that each one of us, in some way, shape or form, wherever Jesus leads, has to go. Just as Jesus came to us, so we are called to go to the lost – to the sinners, to the outcasts, to those amongst our family and our friends and our work colleagues and our local football club and our neighbours and our enemies – even our enemies – to go and make disciples of all the nations – to go and be ambassadors ... ambassadors of Christ. My friend, if you believe in Jesus; if you have given your life to Him, I encourage you to do something today – I want encourage you to go to Him, in prayer, and say: Lord Jesus, I want to be Your ambassador. I want to be part of Your great plan for this world, of transforming lives; I want to carry You into this world, Lord, I want to see people meet You. Lord God, show me how ... show me how.

Discover the true joy that lasts forever in this inspiring Lutheran sermon based on Luke 10:20. Pastor David Balla from the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) preaches on “The Joy of Heaven” for the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost. Jesus reminds His disciples not to rejoice in their ministry successes but to rejoice that their names are written in heaven. This powerful sermon will deepen your Christian faith, helping you focus on the eternal hope of salvation through Jesus Christ rather than temporary earthly accomplishments. Drawing on LCMS theology, Lutheran tradition, and the Small Catechism, this sermon proclaims the Gospel with clarity and conviction. Perfect for those seeking biblical preaching, Lutheran sermons, LCMS Pentecost reflections, and Christian encouragement. Learn what it means to have your name written in the Lamb's Book of Life, to rest in Christ's finished work, and to rejoice in your secure place in God's kingdom. Share this message with your family, Bible study group, or congregation. Subscribe for more Lutheran preaching, confessional LCMS teachings, and Bible-based sermons to strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer.Hashtags:#LutheranSermon #LCMS #Luke1020 #PentecostPreaching #ChristianJoy

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes' exciting local radio program, Heart of the Athlete, airs Saturdays at 9 am MST on KBXL 94.1 FM. The show is hosted by local FCA Director, Ken Lewis. This program is a great opportunity to listen to local athletes and coaches share their lives, combining sports with their faith in Jesus Christ each week!Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word through Integrity, Serving, Teamwork and Excellence.NNU Box 3359 623 S University Blvd Nampa, ID 83686 United States (208) 697-1051 klewis@fca.orghttps://www.fcaidaho.org/Podcast Website: https://941thevoice.com/podcasts/heart-of-the-athlete/

In this episode, we discus Quantum Science, and how the Quantum realm relates yto our Faith in Jesus Christ.GET IN THE ARENA!!  Get your copy of SMITH'S Heart Of Man Repair Manual: https://www.amazon.com/Smiths-Heart-Man-Repair-Manual-ebook/dp/B0949HKJ2Y/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=smith%27s+heart+of+man+repair+manual&qid=1662493566&sprefix=Smith%27s+heart+of+man+repair+man%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-1  Email us at: FlawedInkCLE@Gmail.com

The concept of Covenants are very important in the Bible. They are central to the Bible's unfolding storyline, and they are central for a proper understanding of the relationship that exists between God and Man. Yet, in much of the church today, covenants are not often discussed and even less often understood. In this episode, James Kaczor gives a brief overview of Covenant Theology. He touches on the Tri-covenantal Framework often espoused by Reformed Theologians (Summary Below)Covenant of Redemption: This is the eternal agreement between the three Persons of the Trinity to redeem humanity. Covenant of Works: This is the agreement God made with Adam, as the Head of the Human Race, that promised eternal life for perfect obedience and death for disobedience. All humans who are not "in Christ" are "in Adam" and still subject to the consequences of this covenant. Covenant of Grace: This is the agreement between God the Father and Jesus Christ, along with all those who are "in Christ," whereby God offers eternal life and salvation to fallen sinners through faith in Jesus Christ. In this Covenant, God also gives to his people the gift of his Holy Spirit that makes them willing and able to believe. It is through the grace of this Covenant that all people, since the fall of Adam, must be saved.In addition to this, James spends time unpacking the successive and related Covenants that advance the storyline of the Bible and the redemptive plan of God for the world. Mainly in this order: Abrahamic Covenant -> Mosaic Covenant -> Davidic Covenant -> New CovenantThis message was first preached by James Kaczor on 6/26/2025 at River City's Thursday Morning Bible Study.

Romans 3 vs 20-26.For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are.But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Mosesi and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.

Romans 3 vs 20-26.For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are.But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Mosesi and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comRomans 10 Many Jewish people possess zeal for God but lack knowledge. Unaware of His righteousness, they attempt to establish their own. Justification through law will always fail to render one righteous, “for Christ is the end of the law for righteousness for everyone who believes.” This righteousness is found in the word of faith that has been proclaimed: that those who confess Jesus as Lord and believe that God raised Him from the dead will be saved. God requires a believing heart and open lips to profess the name of Jesus. Regardless of their background, whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. This salvation necessitates hearing the gospel of Christ and responding in faith. Unfortunately, prophecy foretold that many in Israel would not listen to the truth. Christians should desire and pray for everyone's salvation. If we know individuals who are zealous for God but lack understanding of the gospel, we should be prepared to share the truth of Jesus with them. Salvation comes through faith and requires hearts that believe and mouths that confess. Be attentive to the opportunities God provides to confess Jesus by helping someone in your life grasp the truth about Him. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. However, the gospel reveals that such a call requires belief, confession of Jesus, repentance from sins, and submission to Christ through baptism. Many are not yet ready to obey, but we must continue to share God's gracious plan. Righteous Lord, thank You for making salvation accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. Thank You for the promise that everyone who calls on His name will be saved. Strengthen us to boldly confess Jesus as Lord and fully trust in His resurrection. Give us hearts for those who have not yet responded to the gospel and a passion to share Your word with them. Help us be faithful messengers, knowing that the faith within us and others comes from “the word of Christ.” Purge from within us any disobedience or obstinance that may prevent us from experiencing salvation in Your Son. Thought Questions: -       What does “confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead” mean in your life? -       If “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ,” how does that direct how you grow closer to Christ and share Him with others? -       “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Does this include elements like repentance and baptism? How do you know?

Daily Dose of Hope July 1, 2025   Scripture – Matthew 20:1-19   Prayer: Lord Jesus, Show mercy on me.  I fail you over and over again.  I am not as loving as I should be.  I'm not as patient as I should be.  I don't demonstrate compassion and justice in the way you call me to do so.  Forgive me, Lord.  Help me do better.  More of you and less of me.  Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, a Deep Dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are exploring the first portion of Matthew 20.   The Kingdom of God turns things upside down. In this parable, we see Jesus emphasizing this truth. The bottom line, whether you worked all day or just for an hour, God acts with grace toward all people.   The story begins with three main characters: a landowner, a steward or manager, and people needing work. The first surprise comes when the landowner himself goes out to the marketplace to hire laborers. In spite of the unusual appearance by the wealthy landowner, the initial arrangement is typical of Jewish custom and Torah guidelines.  Workers are hired at the beginning of the day to be paid a typical daily wage at the end of their work day. But before those workers have a chance to get much work done, the landowner goes back to the marketplace to hire workers and repeats this practice all the way until the 5 o'clock hour when there is little daylight or work remaining. Those hired at nine, noon, and three are not offered a full contract but are willing to trust the landowner to pay them “whatever is right.” The five o'clock hires aren't promised anything but the opportunity to work. We would have thought that the landowner would have known the number of workers he needed.  But it seems evident that he is hiring workers not because there is this huge amount of work that needs to be done, but because the people need work.  The wealthy landowner is truly concerned for the workers themselves. And then comes time for the pay.  Shocking everyone, the people who were paid at the end of the day end up receiving a whole day's pay.  In fact, whether the person was hired at 8am or 5pm, they each got the same payment at the end of the work day.  This doesn't make the workers hired early very happy.  In fact, they protest.  They feel like justice has not been served.   While Jesus is concerned with justice, mercy is also very high on his list.  Jesus is once again making an important point here.  If we are “good people” our whole lives, that doesn't earn us a place in heaven. None of us are good enough; we are all sinners (Romans 3:23). We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. And whether we have believed in Jesus since we were 5 years old or 95 years old, we are given the same offer of grace. We are all in the same boat. God won't be passing out MVP trophies. Rather than complaining that it isn't fair, let's rejoice that Jesus has offered us grace at all. Let's be real-none of us are worthy.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

In the Bible it tells us not to stop gathering with other believers in Jesus Christ. Now I know we generally read this concerning gathering in our churches, but often as we gather outside of church with men and women who have a faith in Jesus Christ, we grow closer to Him and others as well. On today's program we will meet a man who saw a need for men and women to get out and get together during Covid. He came up with the idea of having a Christ based outdoors event where people could gather with others of faith and the Good News of Jesus Christ could be shared as well.  

The true Christian church is not defined by a building, denomination, or tradition, but by people who have genuinely placed their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, are born again by the Holy Spirit, and live in obedience to God's Word.1 Corinthians 3:11We are (LIVE) on our website's [Morning Devo] podcast now!:::: sELAH rADIO Network https://soulwinnerz.org ::::::::: https://live.soulwinnerz.org and we want to see who you are by simply clicking here https://chat.restream.io/fb :::::Join the Adult Bible Study: https://soulwinnerz.org/adultSponsored by: Bethlehem Kung Fu Center https://bethlehemkungfu.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-blaze-bible-study--525630/support.

Some locations mark our lives forever because of what God did for us there. Today, Sinclair Ferguson takes a mental visit to the pulpit he sat under when he came to faith in Jesus Christ—a pulpit from which he later preached. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/things-unseen-with-sinclair-ferguson/a-little-pulpit-in-scotland/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In Galatians 4, Paul draws a bold line between spiritual slavery and true sonship—and if you've ever felt trapped by religious performance like in Mormonism, this chapter is your invitation to step into the freedom of being fully adopted by God through faith in Christ alone.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Galatians 4 | From Slavery to SonshipTheme: Freedom in Christ vs. LDS Legalism and Spiritual BondageLast time in Galatians 3, Paul made it crystal clear: Salvation comes by faith in Christ—not by keeping the law. Paul dismantled the idea that law-keeping could ever make someone right with God.He pointed to Abraham, showing that even he was saved by faith long before the law was given. Paul explained that the law was like a temporary guardian or tutor, showing us our sin but never designed to save us.The big takeaway from Chapter 3: We are made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ—not by religious performance or obedience to commandments.Where Galatians 4 Picks Up:Now, in chapter 4, Paul continues that argument—but he shifts the focus to something deeply relational. He introduces the beautiful truth that believers aren't just forgiven sinners—they're adopted children of God!Paul uses family language—sons, heirs, adoption, Abba Father—to contrast the cold slavery of law-based religion with the warm relationship of grace-based Christianity.This next section will especially hit home for LDS listeners, because Mormonism still keeps people under law, denies full adoption until after lifelong worthiness, and often replaces a personal relationship with God with institutional loyalty and religious performance.Let's dive into Galatians 4: From Slavery to Sonship.Section 1: Galatians 4:1-7 | From Slaves to Sons: Relationship by Faith, Not LawPaul starts with a cultural illustration. In ancient times, heirs had no more rights than slaves until their father declared them full sons.Jewish context: Age 12, "son of the law"Greek context: Coming of age around 18Roman context (likely Paul's audience): The father chose the time for full adoption and inheritanceSpiritual point: Before Christ, people lived like spiritual minors—under guardianship, lacking freedom.Galatians 4:3 says we were slaves to the basic spiritual principles of this world—elemental spiritual forces linked to pagan gods and demonic powers.Modern LDS Parallel:Many LDS today engage in spiritualistic practices: energy healing, chakra work, astrology apps, spirit communication, manifestation, and lightworking. Mormonism's openness to extra-biblical revelation makes this trend possible and widespread.God's Rescue Mission Through Christ (Galatians 4:4-5):Jesus came at God's appointed time to redeem those under the law. Not just freedom from slavery—but full adoption as sons and daughters.Result (Galatians...

In Galatians 4, Paul draws a bold line between spiritual slavery and true sonship—and if you've ever felt trapped by religious performance like in Mormonism, this chapter is your invitation to step into the freedom of being fully adopted by God through faith in Christ alone.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Galatians 4 | From Slavery to SonshipTheme: Freedom in Christ vs. LDS Legalism and Spiritual BondageLast time in Galatians 3, Paul made it crystal clear: Salvation comes by faith in Christ—not by keeping the law. Paul dismantled the idea that law-keeping could ever make someone right with God.He pointed to Abraham, showing that even he was saved by faith long before the law was given. Paul explained that the law was like a temporary guardian or tutor, showing us our sin but never designed to save us.The big takeaway from Chapter 3: We are made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ—not by religious performance or obedience to commandments.Where Galatians 4 Picks Up:Now, in chapter 4, Paul continues that argument—but he shifts the focus to something deeply relational. He introduces the beautiful truth that believers aren't just forgiven sinners—they're adopted children of God!Paul uses family language—sons, heirs, adoption, Abba Father—to contrast the cold slavery of law-based religion with the warm relationship of grace-based Christianity.This next section will especially hit home for LDS listeners, because Mormonism still keeps people under law, denies full adoption until after lifelong worthiness, and often replaces a personal relationship with God with institutional loyalty and religious performance.Let's dive into Galatians 4: From Slavery to Sonship.Section 1: Galatians 4:1-7 | From Slaves to Sons: Relationship by Faith, Not LawPaul starts with a cultural illustration. In ancient times, heirs had no more rights than slaves until their father declared them full sons.Jewish context: Age 12, "son of the law"Greek context: Coming of age around 18Roman context (likely Paul's audience): The father chose the time for full adoption and inheritanceSpiritual point: Before Christ, people lived like spiritual minors—under guardianship, lacking freedom.Galatians 4:3 says we were slaves to the basic spiritual principles of this world—elemental spiritual forces linked to pagan gods and demonic powers.Modern LDS Parallel:Many LDS today engage in spiritualistic practices: energy healing, chakra work, astrology apps, spirit communication, manifestation, and lightworking. Mormonism's openness to extra-biblical revelation makes this trend possible and widespread.God's Rescue Mission Through Christ (Galatians 4:4-5):Jesus came at God's appointed time to redeem those under the law. Not just freedom from slavery—but full adoption as sons and daughters.Result (Galatians...

Send us a textLife's most profound reality stares us in the face, yet many refuse to acknowledge it: once born, you will exist forever. This isn't about spiritual metaphors or religious theories—it's the stark biblical truth about human existence. The only question remaining is where and how you'll spend that eternity.The Bible speaks with unmistakable clarity on this matter. Whether Christian or non-Christian, your soul's existence will never end. For believers, this means eternal glory in Christ's presence. For those who reject Him, it means eternal punishment in what Scripture calls "everlasting fire." No middle ground exists, despite growing voices within Christian circles claiming otherwise.A troubling trend has emerged among self-proclaimed believers who teach that hell is temporary or merely results in annihilation. These falsehoods contradict Jesus' explicit teaching in Matthew 25, where He describes eternal punishment using the same Greek word (aiōnios) that describes eternal life for believers. Logic demands consistency—if heaven is forever, so is hell. When Christ said it would have been better for Judas had he never been born, He confirmed hell's eternal nature, for if universal salvation were true, temporary suffering followed by eternal bliss would still constitute a worthwhile existence.God's perfect justice requires proportionate punishment. If all sinners simply ceased to exist regardless of their sins' severity, how could God be considered just? Scripture declares "whatever a man sows, that he will also reap"—a principle that demands varying degrees of eternal punishment, not a one-size-fits-all annihilation.This sobering reality should motivate our evangelism and deepen our gratitude for salvation. The magnitude of Christ's sacrifice corresponds precisely to the severity of what He saves us from. Why would Jesus endure such suffering if hell were merely temporary or if souls simply disappeared?Have you settled your eternal destination? The decision you make about Christ in this life determines your forever. There are no second chances after death, no purgatorial cleansing, no eventual universal salvation. Today remains your opportunity to choose everlasting life through faith in Jesus Christ.Support the show

Discover this powerful Lutheran sermon from the Third Sunday after Pentecost, based on Luke 9:51–62, titled “Eyes Forward, Hands to the Plow.” In this confessional Lutheran message, Pastor Balla explores how Jesus Christ set His face toward Jerusalem, refusing to look back, and how this resolute love gives us courage to follow Him in faith today. Learn what it means to live as a disciple with your eyes fixed on Christ, letting go of regret, and trusting in the grace that makes you fit for the kingdom of God. Whether you are a lifelong Lutheran or exploring the Christian faith, this sermon will encourage you with Gospel-centered hope, rooted in the Scriptures and framed by the Lutheran Confessions. This sermon is perfect for those seeking a Christ-centered, Bible-based, Law-and-Gospel message in the LCMS tradition. Listen and be strengthened by the good news that Christ goes before you and is with you always. Subscribe for more Lutheran sermons, Bible teachings, and confessional resources to deepen your faith in Jesus Christ our Lord.⸻Five Suggested Hashtags:#LutheranSermon#LCMS#Luke9#EyesForwardHandsToThePlow#ConfessionalLutheran

In this episode, we examine the distinction between modern Israel as a nation-state and biblical Israel as defined in Scripture. Dr. Richard Caldwell explains that while ethnic Israel remains significant in God's redemptive plan, salvation comes only through faith in Jesus Christ. The conversation explores Romans 11, eschatological promises, and the role of Israel in current events—offering theological clarity for believers seeking to understand God's faithfulness to His covenant people.

In this episode, we examine the distinction between modern Israel as a nation-state and biblical Israel as defined in Scripture. Dr. Richard Caldwell explains that while ethnic Israel remains significant in God's redemptive plan, salvation comes only through faith in Jesus Christ. The conversation explores Romans 11, eschatological promises, and the role of Israel in current events—offering theological clarity for believers seeking to understand God's faithfulness to His covenant people.

We delve into the profound significance of the helmet of salvation in our ongoing exploration of spiritual warfare, as articulated in Ephesians 6. This episode emphasizes the paramount importance of safeguarding our minds and thoughts against doubt, condemnation, and confusion, which are the insidious tactics employed by the adversary. By donning the helmet of salvation, we not only affirm our identity in Christ but also reinforce our assurance of salvation, liberating ourselves from the burdens of guilt and fear. As we engage with the complexities of this spiritual armor, we encourage our listeners to reflect on the transformative power of faith and the necessity of renewing one's mind through scripture. Ultimately, we invite you to join us in this enlightening discourse, ensuring that you are equipped to navigate the challenges of spiritual warfare with clarity and conviction.Takeaways: The helmet of salvation serves to protect our minds from doubt and confusion, providing assurance of our identity in Christ. Understanding salvation involves recognizing our justification, sanctification, and future glorification through faith in Jesus Christ. Spiritual warfare requires the application of the armor of God, with each piece symbolizing a crucial aspect of our faith. Engaging with scripture through meditation and prayer is essential for renewing our minds and reinforcing our spiritual resilience.

As Pastor Bill continues his teaching series through the book of Acts, he'll be reminding you that the same powerful work of the Holy Spirit is still happening to this day. All those who put their faith in Jesus Christ are immediately and permanently indwelt by the Holy Spirit. His power leads us, convicts us, teaches us, and equips us to do His work and spread the gospel. The Holy Spirit's powerful indwelling is an amazing gift that you should never take lightly. Purpose to cooperate with His work within you!

What does real faith look like—and how can it become a transforming power in your life? In this episode of Redeemed Through His Blood, Scott and Deb dive deep into the doctrine of faith in Jesus Christ. Far from being passive belief, faith is portrayed here as a relational, responsive trust that moves us to act—even when we don't see the outcome. Drawing on personal experiences, scriptures, and gospel teachings, they explore what it means to trust the Savior enough to move forward in uncertainty.Scott and Deb reflect on the idea that true faith isn't just about outcomes—it's about becoming. As we choose to believe Christ, follow Him, and act on His promises, our faith opens the door to His enabling, strengthening, and transforming grace. This episode will help you see faith not as a checklist item, but as a way of life that connects you to divine power, especially when the path is unclear.

In this week's episode, Dennis Jernigan shares the story behind his song,  “Rock of My Life” from the recording, Forty Days and Forty Nights - Songs of Contemplation and Intimacy Vol. 1." That mp3 is available at https://www.dennisjernigan.com/store/product.php?c=24&p=2353 The lyrics can be found below. You can join Dennis and the people of All In All Church for live-stream worship on the first Wednesday evening of each month. Just go to https://www.facebook.com/therealdennisjernigan at 7 PM CST. Mark it in your calendar. Worship with All in All Church - First Wednesday of each month. Daily Devotions for Kingdom Seekers, Vol. 3 is available at https://www.amazon.com/Daily-Devotions-Kingdom-Seekers-Vol-ebook/dp/B081K8TZLX Check out my Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/DennisJernigan and read through the various tiers of support and discover the myriad of benefits you will receive based on the level of support you choose. If you're willing, go ahead and sign up! You will find the show notes and lyrics below: Hello and welcome to another episode of The Dennis Jernigan Podcast. I'm your host, Dennis Jernigan, and I am so grateful you have joined me for this week's podcast. I'll get right to the heart of the matter today. For far too many years I allowed the lies of the enemy to define me. That all changed the day I was overwhelmed with the Truth that Jesus Christ had died for me. I was instantly set free from my past but had to walk out the wonderful but difficult journey toward wholeness. In fact, I'm still on that journey. I invite you to join me for today's brief leg of that adventure as I share the story behind my song, “Rock of My Life”. Way back in 2010, I embarked on an adventure that lasted 40 days but continues to affect my life to this day. From May 3 through June 11 I went on a 40 day fast. I needed to reboot my system because I had just gone through a series of traumatic events that left me gutted. The Lord called me to a fast and led me to meditate daily on Psalm 40 and Isaiah 40. He spoke to my heart and told me He would give me a song each day of the fast and that I was to record it that same day. Since then, I put together 4 ten song volumes where you can find all 40 songs. The first ten songs are on the collection called Forty Days and Forty Nights - Songs of Contemplation and Intimacy Vol. 1. This week's episode is the story behind the song “Rock of My Life” which came to me on May 6, 2010 which was day 4 of that fast. As soon as I began the fast, I felt God's presence and love for me and my spiritual hunger for more of Him began to surpass my physical hunger. But what the Lord began to reveal to me was often not always pleasant or easy to hear. He revealed to me that I still believed certain lies about my identity; He showed me that I still battled thoughts of being unlovable and of feeling rejected; He pulled back the curtain of my heart and I saw that I still struggled with doubts and that I often reverted to a victim mentality. It felt like I was suddenly on shaky ground. On May 6, 2010, I meditated on Psalm 40:2b which says, “And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.” To say I was consumed with what that meant to my soul is an understatement. The sinking sand I had been mired in suddenly began to be replaced by the Solid Rock of my faith in the ever-present presence of my Savior, Jesus Christ. As I poured out my heart to him in honest confession, anxious thoughts began to fall by the wayside; fear began to melt away from the fire of God's massive love for me; doubt was eradicated; I stepped into an even greater awareness of who I am and of whose I am; as I declared the truth of God's word over my own soul, I suddenly found myself firmly planted on the solid rock of Jesus Christ. From that vantage point, I recognized that I had set my eyes on Dennis - on myself - and we always know how that goes. I saw that in my pride there was no room for Jesus, but as I humbled myself and fixed my eyes on Him, even the most hurtful traumas of my life began to go through a whole new phase of healing. Let's take a few minutes and listen to the song and, as we do, let us fix our eyes away from ourselves and onto the solid rock of Jesus Christ. Are you ready? SONG As I have said in the past few episodes, these songs have taken on a whole new meaning for me since my diagnosis of Parkinson's in 2019. But the truth of the matter is that I have discovered the rock solid foundation of faith in Jesus Christ is even more solid and more steadfast than I could ever could have imagined experiencing in this life. Jesus is indeed a steadfast rock…the Rock of My Salvation…and will continue to be so until the day I die - and far beyond. The bottom line? I am not a victim. I am a victor because of the victorious work of Jesus on the cross and because of His victory over sin, death, and the grave. I am full of resurrection power…and so are you, my fellow new creations in Christ. Thank you for tuning in to The Dennis Jernigan Podcast! For more about my journey, music, and updates, visit dennisjernigan.com. Stay connected by following me on Facebook, Instagram, and enjoy my music on various streaming platforms. If you'd like to support the podcast's creation, consider joining my team at www.patreon.com/dennisjernigan. If you're looking for the mp3 of the song “Rock of My Life" from the album "Forty Days and Forty Nights - Songs of Contemplation and Intimacy Vol. 1," head over to the store at dennisjernigan.com or find it on your favorite streaming service. Remember this from today's episode: the constant, unwavering, massive love of God is where we must choose to abide and wait on Him. He is a sure Foundation. He is Solid Ground in a shaken and fallen world. Just keep your eyes fixed on Him and keep your feet firmly planted on the Solid Rock of Jesus Christ. Now, go forth and embrace the truth of who your heavenly Father says you are.       Vol. I – Song Four – Day Four Psalm 40:2b NASB   Rock of My Life Words & Music by Dennis Jernigan
Received on May 6, 2010 
Verse One One day happy, next day alone Greatest sorrow I've ever known Then I cried out to You And You set my feet upon a rock   One day hopeful, next day in pain Fears consume me, falling like rain Then I cried out to You And You set my feet upon a rock   Chorus You are the rock and the hope of my life You are the air that I breathe to survive You are my hope, You are the rock of my life   You are my rock and the hope of my life You are my joy with an endless supply You are my hope, You are the rock of my life              Verse two One day standing, next day I'm down I get so lost but I want to be found So I cry out to you and you set my feet upon a rock   One day soaring, next day in shame In my own strength, I go down in flames So I cry out to you, and you set my feet upon a rock Chorus You are the rock and the hope of my life You are the air that I breathe to survive You are my hope, You are the rock of my life   You are my rock and the hope of my life You are my joy with an endless supply You are my hope, You are the rock of my life              
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Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comRomans 3 The Jews have the unique privilege of being God's chosen people who receive the “oracles of God.” However, this does not excuse their sin, nor does their unrighteousness diminish God's goodness. Paul explains that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin, showing that no one is righteous and that all need God's grace through Jesus Christ. Citing Old Testament scriptures, Paul demonstrates that God has always known humanity could not achieve righteousness through the law. The solution is found in righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, who provides propitiation through His blood. God justifies believers as a gift of grace through Christ's redemption. God's righteousness is on display, as He is just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. In this, all personal boasting is excluded.   The Jewish people are special because God chose to reveal scripture through them. For some, this belief led to a mistaken notion that they could sin without fearing judgment from God. However, God is a righteous judge who will punish all those condemned by sin. This serves as a needful lesson for some Christians. Understanding the truth and being part of God's people does not excuse sin. The reality is that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Furthermore, none will be justified by their heritage, church affiliations, or knowledge. God alone is righteous, and He chooses to demonstrate this by granting us redemption as we live by faith in Jesus. We must choose humility over boasting.   Holy God, we confess that we have sinned and fallen short of Your glory, and we are completely dependent on Your grace. Thank You for the gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, who redeemed us through His sacrifice. Help us to live humbly, acknowledging that we cannot earn salvation but receive it as Your loving gift. Teach us never to misuse Your grace with willful sin but to choose faithfulness so that we may glorify and praise You with our allegiance. Lead us to someone today who is burdened by their imperfections and in need of Your grace.   Thought Questions: -       God is patient with His people. Does this mean you can sin as often as you want and be covered by His grace? Why not? -       If no one is righteous, and all fall short of God's glory, how do you maintain confidence that He has saved you? Where is your confidence? -       Justification is a gift of grace from the righteous Judge. How does your daily life demonstrate your gratitude for this incredible gift?

When Emily Peterson's husband passed away after a short but heart wrenching battle with brain cancer, she was left with grief, children to raise, and a business to run. But through it all, she felt the steady presence of her Heavenly Father—and of her husband, guiding her from beyond the veil. In this week's episode, Emily opens up about love that endures, grief that refines, and a journey that is anything but solitary. 4:24- Nathan and Emily 5:42- Losing a Baby 8:36- The Beginning of the Blankets 11:05- Working Together as a Couple 13:40- Two Ancestors 15:47- Devastating Diagnosis 20:37- But If Not 27:14- Guiding Kids Through Grief 33:36- Saranoni Cares 38:21- Making Nathan A Part of Everything 43:05- Today 45:21- What Does It Mean To Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ? “If we come out of this with greater faith in Jesus Christ and closer as a family, it will be worth it in the end.” -Nathan Peterson Links:  The Saranoni Story- https://saranoni.com/pages/about-us?srsltid=AfmBOorAcQ1LVhOw6_NL8PqKaVcFB88WTfD6kVgaxUD1BVl8WpdPpOIk Sister Wendy Watson Nelson- “My Soul Delighteth” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dF_HUTTx7q4